WFR Honda makes track debut

WFR Honda's preparations for the 2011 British Superbike EVO Championship are underway after it embarked on a shakedown test at Silverstone.

Ahead of an ambitious three-rider assault on the BSB sub-category, Glen Richards, Alex Lowes and Graeme Gowland were all out on track to sample the Honda CBR1000RR.

A return to Honda Superbike machinery for Richards, who raced with HM Plant Honda in BSB in 2009, the Australian was satisfied to be up to speed already.

"The Honda feels good and this will be my third year on the Fireblade so I know what to expect and what can be improved once we get to the next test. We are not that far off despite being the first day on track so that is a good feeling and now we just have to make some changes so we are ready to challenge at the first round."

Lowes, meanwhile, spent the day adjusting to the rigours of Superbike machinery following a year mostly peddling Supersport bikes.

"[It} was really good and it felt mega to be back out on a bike again. The Honda felt really good straight away and now I can't wait to start some serious testing done and get up to speed when we get back out later this week."

Former Motorpoint Yamaha rider Gowland is also excited about the team's potential, even if he expects his team-mates to pose his biggest threat in the fight for the EVO title.

"It was my first run out on the bike and we had a few teething problems to begin with, as you normally do, but then we really got our heads down and had a good afternoon.

“The Honda is already feeling like a good package and we have all ended the day feeling really positive about the season, we all want to win the Evo title so it is going to be interesting!"